Replacement M4 Axle – choose the correct axle length for your YoYo

Dave’s take

“A YoYo axle is normally not a part you need to replace regularly. Most people need a spare because the original axle disappeared while taking the YoYo apart – or because it was damaged after a particularly unfortunate impact.
One important detail: M4 only describes the thread diameter. The length also needs to match your YoYo. If you are not sure, just ask us – that is much easier than ordering the wrong axle.”

Dave Geigle · 5-time European YoYo Champion · Playing since 1997

• Replacement for lost or damaged axles → normally not a regular wear item

• Standard M4 thread → used in a large number of modern YoYos

• Different lengths available → because M4 alone does not tell you whether the axle fits your YoYo

• Model compatibility overview → further down you will find a selection of popular YoYos and their verified axle lengths

M4 does not automatically mean it fits

Many modern YoYos use an M4 threaded set screw as their axle. M4 describes a thread diameter of 4 mm.

However, this does not mean that every M4 axle fits every M4 YoYo. Different designs require different axle lengths.

An axle that is too short may not engage deeply enough in both YoYo halves. An axle that is too long may prevent the YoYo from closing correctly.

Which M4 axle do I need?

Below is a selection of popular models from our range for which the correct axle length can be clearly identified:

Important: This is intentionally not a complete list of every YoYo ever produced. Many additional models also use M4 axles – but rather than guessing with an unlisted YoYo, we would much rather help you personally.

Not sure? Just ask us!

Special case: SHOOTiNG STAR

With the iYoYo SHOOTiNG STAR, the required axle length depends on the setup you are using.

In the responsive beginner setup with the slim Half-Spec Bearing, the YoYo uses an M4 × 8 mm axle.

When converting SHOOTiNG STAR to the full-width Pixel Bearing for unresponsive play, you also install the supplied M4 × 10 mm axle.

So if you are replacing a lost SHOOTiNG STAR axle, first check which bearing setup you want to use.

When does a YoYo axle need replacing?

During normal play, almost never. A properly treated axle will usually last for a very long time.

Typical reasons for replacement are:

• the axle was lost while taking the YoYo apart
• it became visibly bent after a hard impact
• the thread on the axle itself was damaged

If your YoYo suddenly develops strong vibration, however, the axle is not automatically the cause. Incorrect assembly, an improperly seated bearing or damage to the YoYo itself can also create vibration.

Important when installing the axle

Do not force the axle deeply into one YoYo half. It only needs to be positioned so that both halves can engage properly and screw together securely.

Also tighten your YoYo by hand only. Extra force does not improve the connection, but it does increase the risk of damaging the axle or threads.